US FDA says omega-3 oils from GM soya are safe to eat

GOOD news for fish stocks at last. A genetically modified soybean that produces oil containing omega-3 fatty acids - recommended for heart and brain health - could supplement fish as a source of these nutrients.

Last week, the US Food and Drug Administration made public its ruling that the oil produced by GM soybeans is safe to eat, meaning food companies can begin testing it in products such as margarine.

Developed by biotech giant Monsanto, the soybean is the first GM plant that has claimed health benefits for consumers, not just economic benefits to farmers. Two other companies, BASF and Du Pont, say they are not far behind. BASF has developed GM canola plants that produce similar oils, while Du Pont makes them by fermenting micro-organisms, and says it plans to launch ...

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